Nutritional supplements maker Reliv International said this week it has launched its patented nutritional supplement for healthy joint function in Mexico.
Arthaffect, a powdered supplement, contains more than 20 nutrients thought to reduce pain and inflammation and promote repair of damaged joint tissues, including the patented collagen powder Arthred.
Reliv's announcement follows release of a new survey by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that shows one in three US adults suffers from arthritis or other chronic joint problems. The new estimate is 63 per cent higher than a 1997 estimate claiming about one in five US adults had chronic joint problems.
"Aging baby boomers account for some of the increase, but more and more joint problems can be blamed on lifestyle choices," said Reliv vice president and Arthaffect developer Dr Carl W. Hastings. "Obesity, unhealthy diets and lack of exercise are all big contributors to joint disease and discomfort."
St. Louis-based Reliv introduced Arthaffect in October 1996 and received a patent from the United States Patent and Trademark Office in January 2001.
Arthaffect, which is one of the company's leading products, is available solely through independent Reliv Distributors. It is also available in the United States and the Philippines, and, under the name A-Affect in Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
Reliv also makes fiber supplements, diet management products, functional foods, sports drink mixes and skin care products.